The petition was sponsored by Nationals MP Melina Bath and was presented on February 19.
With almost 34,000 individuals signing up for it online, the No New National Parks petition has become the largest e-petition in Victorian history.
State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said the petition aimed to safeguard bush user groups and hobbyists.
“The historic petition gives a voice to Victorians who cherish our bush and embrace traditional outdoor activities like camping, hunting, four-wheel driving, hiking, horse riding, mountain biking, prospecting and fishing,” Ms Cleeland said.
“These activities fuel regional economies and support mental wellbeing, yet Labor’s flawed policies have put them at risk.”
A Victorian Government spokesperson said legislation to form three new parks would be introduced this year.
“The government will introduce legislation in 2025 to create three new national parks in central-west Victoria — the Wombat-Lerderderg, Mt Buangor and Pyrenees national parks.
“Victorians will continue to enjoy a range of recreational activities in the new national parks including bush walking, camping, horse riding, four-wheel driving, dog walking, fishing and more.
“Seasonal recreational deer hunting by stalking will be permitted in large parts of the Wombat-Lederderg and Pyreness national parks.”
The movers of the petition argue that the creation of these parks both disregards the interests of Victorians who participate in recreational activities and has the potential to impact the natural environment.
“Labor’s flawed policies are not saving vulnerable species, through neglect and mismanagement it is placing them and Victorians at a greater risk of bushfire,” Ms Bath said.
“The Liberals and Nationals will actively manage our public land for better environmental and recreational outcomes.
“Labor can’t manage our public land, and Victorians are paying the price.”
The government spokesperson said national parks worked to protect the environment while also allowing for Victorians to enjoy the bush.
“The great outdoors are to be experienced and admired, not locked away,” the spokesperson said.
“Our focus is to bring more families to the bush and more jobs to the regions — while still protecting our environment.
“We want as many Victorians as possible to enjoy the great outdoors with access to a wide range of recreational opportunities, while protecting what we love about our iconic bush for generations to come.”
Response on the petition was due on March 21, however its status on the Parliament of Victoria’s website suggests that it is still awaiting response.
More information on the petition can be found at parliament.vic.gov.au/parliamentary-activity/tabled-petitions-search/tabled-petitions-details/9007
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